Selecting the right frying pan can dramatically impact your cooking results. Two popular choices for home cooks are the OXO Obsidian 12″ Carbon Steel Frying Pan and the Made In Cookware – 12-Inch Stainless Steel Frying. Each offers distinct advantages based on cooking style and material preference.
Quick Check
| Fact Name | OXO Obsidian 12″ Carbon Steel | Made In Cookware – 12-Inch |
|---|---|---|
| Product | ||
| Check Price | Check Price on Amazon | Check Price on Amazon |
| Capacity | 3 cups | 3.2 quarts |
| Material | Carbon Steel | Stainless Steel |
| Color | Black | Stainless Handle |
OXO Obsidian 12″ Carbon Steel Frying Pan Review
OXO Obsidian 12″ Carbon Steel Frying Pan: At a Glance
Capacity: 3 cups
Material: Carbon Steel
Special Features: Electric Stovetop Compatible, Gas Stovetop Compatible, Induction Stovetop Compatible, Lightweight, Oven Safe See more
OXO Obsidian 12″ Carbon Steel Frying Pan
This pan is pre-seasoned, meaning you can start cooking with it right away. Its carbon steel construction is known for heating quickly and evenly, making it suitable for a variety of cooking tasks like frying, searing, and stir-frying.
A notable feature is its lightweight construction, which can make handling easier during extended cooking sessions. The pan also comes with a removable silicone handle sleeve for added comfort and safety.
What We Like
- Pre-seasoned for immediate use.
- Lightweight and durable construction.
- Oven safe up to 660°F for versatile cooking.
- Comfortable, removable silicone handle sleeve.
- Metal utensil safe for worry-free use.
- Compatible with all stovetops, including induction.
Things to Consider
- Requires hand washing to maintain its patina.
OXO Obsidian 12″ Carbon Steel Frying Pan, Pre-Seasoned Skillet, Builds Natural Nonstick with Use, Induction Ready, Oven Safe, Removable Silicone Handle
Made In Cookware – 12-Inch Stainless Steel Frying Review
Made In Cookware – 12-Inch Stainless Steel Frying: At a Glance
Capacity: 3.2 quarts
Material: Stainless Steel
Special Features: Induction Stovetop Compatible
Made In Cookware – 12-Inch Stainless Steel Frying
The Made In Cookware – 12-Inch Stainless Steel Frying pan is designed for maximum heat control and responsiveness. Its construction utilizes 5 layers of premium metal, intended to provide excellent heat distribution and durability for professional-quality cooking.
This pan features a ‘stay cool’ handle, meticulously crafted to remain comfortable during cooking, and is secured with stainless steel rivets for longevity. It is also induction cooktop compatible.
What We Like
- 5-layer premium metal construction for superior heat distribution.
- ‘Stay cool’ handle design for comfortable use.
- Durable construction with stainless steel rivets.
- Induction cooktop compatible.
- Expertly made in Italy.
Things to Consider
- Requires more active heat management due to stainless steel properties.
Made In Cookware – 12-Inch Stainless Steel Frying Pan – 5 Ply Stainless Clad – Professional Cookware – Crafted in Italy – Induction Compatible
The Biggest Difference
The fundamental difference between the OXO Obsidian 12″ Carbon Steel Frying Pan and the Made In Cookware – 12-Inch Stainless Steel Frying lies in their material composition and how that affects cooking performance and maintenance.
Carbon steel, used in the OXO Obsidian pan, is known for its ability to develop a natural non-stick patina over time and its quick, even heating. This makes it very forgiving and excellent for searing. Stainless steel, as found in the Made In pan, offers robust durability and precise heat control, but typically requires more attention to prevent sticking and a different approach to seasoning and care.
The OXO Obsidian is pre-seasoned and designed for ease of use, aiming for a non-stick-like experience with minimal initial effort. The Made In pan, while also high-quality, emphasizes professional-grade heat management and long-term resilience, appealing to those who appreciate the nuanced control stainless steel offers.
What Changes in Real Life
- When searing steaks, the OXO Obsidian 12″ Carbon Steel Frying Pan tends to develop a more consistent crust due to the carbon steel’s heat retention and natural non-stick properties over time.
- For delicate foods like fish or eggs, the pre-seasoned surface of the OXO Obsidian can offer a more forgiving cooking experience, reducing the likelihood of sticking compared to a new stainless steel pan.
- When deglazing for a sauce, the Made In Cookware – 12-Inch Stainless Steel Frying pan’s stainless steel surface allows for excellent fond development and easy scraping of browned bits, leading to richer sauces.
- For quick, high-heat stir-fries, both pans perform well, but the lighter weight of the OXO Obsidian might make tossing ingredients more manageable.
- When cooking acidic ingredients like tomatoes or lemon-based sauces, the Made In Stainless Steel Frying pan is generally more resistant to reaction than carbon steel, preserving the flavor of the food.
- Cleaning after a high-fat fry-up might be slightly easier with the OXO Obsidian due to its developing patina, whereas the Made In Stainless Steel might require a bit more scrubbing to remove stubborn residue.
How These Actually Work (And Why It Matters)
The OXO Obsidian 12″ Carbon Steel Frying Pan utilizes the properties of carbon steel, which heats rapidly and evenly. Over time, with regular use and seasoning, it develops a natural non-stick patina. This surface reduces food adhesion and enhances searing capabilities.
The Made In Cookware – 12-Inch Stainless Steel Frying pan employs a multi-clad construction, typically with layers of aluminum or copper sandwiched between stainless steel. This design promotes exceptional heat distribution and retention, allowing for precise temperature control without hot spots. The inert stainless steel surface is durable and reacts minimally with food.
Which One Is Best for You?
When deciding between the OXO Obsidian 12″ Carbon Steel Frying Pan and the Made In Cookware – 12-Inch Stainless Steel Frying, consider your primary cooking methods and desired maintenance routine.
If you prioritize a pan that is ready to go with minimal fuss, offers a naturally developing non-stick surface, and is relatively lightweight, the OXO Obsidian is a strong contender. If your focus is on precise heat control, professional-grade durability, and a pan that can withstand aggressive cooking and cleaning, the Made In Cookware option might be a better fit.
Which One Fits Your Life?
- If you are new to cooking with non-stick alternatives and want a pan that requires minimal initial effort, the OXO Obsidian 12″ Carbon Steel Frying Pan is a good choice.
- If you frequently cook acidic dishes and want a pan that won’t react with your ingredients, the Made In Cookware – 12-Inch Stainless Steel Frying is the preferred pick.
- If you appreciate a lighter pan that is easier to maneuver for tossing and flipping, the OXO Obsidian 12″ Carbon Steel Frying Pan is the better option.
- If you are looking for a pan that can handle extremely high heat searing and oven finishing without concern, the Made In Cookware – 12-Inch Stainless Steel Frying is the recommended choice.
- If you are comfortable with hand-washing and maintaining a carbon steel surface for optimal performance, the OXO Obsidian 12″ Carbon Steel Frying Pan fits your needs.
My Honest Recommendation
For those seeking a versatile pan that offers a nearly non-stick experience right out of the box and excels at searing, the OXO Obsidian 12″ Carbon Steel Frying Pan is a compelling option. Its pre-seasoned surface and lightweight design make it user-friendly for everyday cooking tasks.
Alternatively, if your culinary style demands precise temperature control, exceptional durability, and the ability to deglaze effectively for rich sauces, the Made In Cookware – 12-Inch Stainless Steel Frying offers professional-grade performance. Its multi-clad construction ensures even heating and longevity for demanding kitchen use.
Feature Comparison
| Feature | OXO Obsidian 12″ Carbon Steel Frying Pan | Made In Cookware – 12-Inch Stainless Steel Frying |
|---|---|---|
| Material | Carbon Steel | Stainless Steel (5-layer clad) |
| Pre-seasoned | Yes | No |
| Stovetop Compatibility | All (including induction) | All (including induction) |
| Oven Safe | Up to 660°F | Yes (typical for stainless steel) |
| Handle Features | Removable silicone sleeve | Stay Cool Handle |
| Cleaning | Hand wash only | Dishwasher safe (hand wash recommended) |
| Weight | Lightweight | Standard weight for clad cookware |
Specifications Comparison
| Fact Name | OXO Obsidian 12″ Carbon Steel | Made In Cookware – 12-Inch |
|---|---|---|
| Brand | OXO | Made In |
| Model | Obsidian 12″ Carbon Steel Frying Pan | Cookware – 12-Inch Stainless Steel Frying |
| Color | Black | Stainless Handle |
| Material | Carbon Steel | Stainless Steel |
| Capacity | 3 cups | 3.2 quarts |
| Special Features | Electric Stovetop Compatible, Gas Stovetop Compatible, Induction Stovetop Compatible, Lightweight, Oven Safe See more | Induction Stovetop Compatible |
Maintenance and Care
Maintaining the OXO Obsidian 12″ Carbon Steel Frying Pan involves hand washing only to preserve its natural patina. After washing, it should be thoroughly dried and lightly oiled to prevent rust and maintain its non-stick properties. Avoid using abrasive scrubbers that could damage the seasoning.
The Made In Cookware – 12-Inch Stainless Steel Frying pan is generally dishwasher safe, but hand washing is recommended to prolong its life and appearance. For stubborn residue, a non-abrasive cleaner and a sponge can be used. It does not require seasoning like carbon steel.
When to Buy for Better Deals
Finding the best value for your kitchen essentials is always a good idea. Both the OXO Obsidian 12″ Carbon Steel Frying Pan and the Made In Cookware – 12-Inch Stainless Steel Frying can be found through various retailers.
- Check major online marketplaces for potential discounts.
- Look for seasonal sales events from kitchenware brands.
- Sign up for newsletters from retailers that carry these brands for sale notifications.
- Compare prices across different online stores before making a purchase.
FAQs
Is carbon steel truly non-stick?
Carbon steel develops a natural non-stick patina over time with proper seasoning and use, but it is not inherently non-stick like a coated pan.
Can I use metal utensils with the Made In Stainless Steel Frying pan?
Yes, stainless steel pans are generally safe for use with metal utensils.
How do I season a carbon steel pan like the OXO Obsidian?
The OXO Obsidian is pre-seasoned, but future seasoning involves heating oil on the surface and wiping it off, a process repeated over time with use.
Is stainless steel hard to clean?
Stainless steel can sometimes require more effort to clean than non-stick surfaces, especially if food residue burns on, but it is durable and can handle scrubbing.
Which pan is better for beginners?
The OXO Obsidian 12″ Carbon Steel Frying Pan is often considered more beginner-friendly due to its pre-seasoned surface and developing non-stick qualities.
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Final Decision
Both the OXO Obsidian 12″ Carbon Steel Frying Pan and the Made In Cookware – 12-Inch Stainless Steel Frying are excellent choices, each catering to different user preferences and cooking styles.
Your final decision should align with your priorities regarding maintenance, desired cooking characteristics, and overall kitchen workflow.
The OXO Obsidian 12″ Carbon Steel Frying Pan offers a user-friendly experience with its pre-seasoned surface and lightweight design, making it ideal for those seeking an easy-to-manage alternative to traditional non-stick pans.
Conversely, the Made In Cookware – 12-Inch Stainless Steel Frying pan provides superior heat control and durability, appealing to cooks who value precision and long-term performance in their cookware.
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